Vancouver Whitecaps Overcome LAFC 2‑2 (4‑3 Pens) to Reach Western Conference Final

Image: Miguel Sanchez-Nunez for Football Club Magazine

The Vancouver Whitecaps FC claimed a dramatic 2–2 draw with Los Angeles FC at BC Place before winning 4–3 in penalties to advance to their first‑ever Western Conference Final. The result came in Game 2 of the MLS Cup Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals. 

Vancouver surged to a 2‑0 lead with goals from Emmanuel Sabbi (39’) and Mathías Laborda (45+1’) after a rebound from a corner.   LAFC refused to go quietly—Son Heung‑min pulled one back in the 60th minute and then struck a stunning free kick in stoppage time (90+5’) to force extra time. 

The match took a sharp turn late: Vancouver defender Tristan Blackmon received a second yellow at 90+2’, reducing his side to ten men before extra time began. Further complicating matters, substitute Belal Halbouni suffered an injury during extra time, leaving Vancouver with nine on the field at certain moments. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Vancouver held firm. LAFC hit the woodwork three times in extra time but couldn’t convert. In the shoot‑out, Vancouver’s composure paid off—Laborda stepped up to score the decisive penalty and send his club into the finals. 

For LAFC, Son further confirmed his world‑class status: fighting back from two down and executing under pressure, yet the penalty loss underlined how even a star performance must be matched with teamwork in playoff football.

Sebastian Berhalter is in outstanding form this season. He is the only player in MLS this year to reach at least 10 assists and 70 key passes while playing fewer than ~2,220 minutes.   He’s already set career bests in goals (4) and assists (11) for his club while operating as the creative midfield engine of the team’s system. His ability to break lines, deliver set‑piece danger, and link up with attacking players makes him a core driver of Vancouver’s upward momentum.

Thomas Müller, meanwhile, has had a significant impact since arriving. His positional intelligence—especially in the “half‑spaces” of Vancouver’s tactical setup—has enhanced both the attacking threat and defensive shape of the team.   In the recent playoff stretch, much of Vancouver’s improved defensive numbers coincide with his inclusion, showing his influence off the ball and in leadership moments.

Image: Miguel Sanchez-Nunez for Football Club Magazine

Vancouver’s breakthrough moment under coach Jesper Sorense reflects their growth—dominating in major moments, high pressure defending, and converting key opportunities.

What’s next: Vancouver now advance to face the winner of the matchup between San Diego FC and Minnesota United FC in the Western Conference Final, for a chance to reach the MLS Cup Final. 

Injured or suspended, Vancouver will be without Tristan Blackmon (suspension) and may be missing Halbouni (injury) at the start of the final. LAFC’s run ends, but their performance—especially Son’s—offers lessons moving forward.

It was a night of peaks and drama, and for Vancouver it’s a milestone—while for LAFC it’s a reminder that talent must be matched with execution when it matters most.